Iran Releases Assets of Women's Football Captain After Asylum Withdrawal
Iran’s judiciary has announced the release of frozen assets belonging to Zahra Ghanbari, captain of the Iranian women’s national football team. The assets were previously seized after Ghanbari and several teammates sought asylum in Australia in March 2026, during the Women’s Asian Cup. This incident occurred against the backdrop of escalating tensions described as an Israeli-US war against the Islamic Republic. Although initially listed among 'traitors' whose properties were frozen, authorities reversed the decision following Ghanbari’s withdrawal of her asylum claim and return to Iran. The judiciary cited a 'declaration of innocence' resulting from her 'change in behaviour.' Ghanbari and four other players returned to Tehran in March, receiving a public welcome, while two other team members remained in Australia. Rights groups have accused Iranian authorities of coercing the athletes by pressuring their families, a charge Tehran denies, instead alleging Australian interference. This development highlights the intense political scrutiny faced by Iranian athletes competing internationally amid ongoing geopolitical conflict.
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Iran Releases Assets of Women's Football Captain After Asylum Withdrawal
Iran’s judiciary has announced the release of frozen assets belonging to Zahra Ghanbari, captain of the Iranian women’s national football team. The assets were previously seized after Ghanbari and several teammates sought asylum in Australia in March 2026, during the Women’s Asian Cup. This incident occurred against the backdrop of escalating tensions described as an Israeli-US war against the Islamic Republic. Although initially listed among 'traitors' whose properties were frozen, authorities reversed the decision following Ghanbari’s withdrawal of her asylum claim and return to Iran. The judiciary cited a 'declaration of innocence' resulting from her 'change in behaviour.' Ghanbari and four other players returned to Tehran in March, receiving a public welcome, while two other team members remained in Australia. Rights groups have accused Iranian authorities of coercing the athletes by pressuring their families, a charge Tehran denies, instead alleging Australian interference. This development highlights the intense political scrutiny faced by Iranian athletes competing internationally amid ongoing geopolitical conflict.
The Guardian